Scent Discovery

For blogs updates....pls go to www.scentdiscovery.com

2009-11-14T20:07:00.000+08:00

For blogs updates....pls go to www.scentdiscovery.com

Top of the World

2009-06-27T16:28:00.001+08:00

A soothing massage can help in more ways then merely to unwind.

Massages might seem to be a frivolous luxury associated with exotic spas and upscale health clubs. But massage therapy, when combined with several other traditional treatments is most effective in combating stress, pains and general healing.

Massage is a familiar process to many. Using various massage techniques like stroking, pushing, kneading and pressing, your body is thoroughly treated. Usually, hands and fingers are used to stimulate and manipulate muscles, skin and pressure points. Fists, elbow and sometimes, even feet are used. There are many variations in massage techniques and you will be surprised at how effective they are when used by trained practitioners like physical therapists, occupational therapists and massage therapists.

Massage relieves muscle tension, eases aches and pains and is a good technique for stress relief. During the massage process, the body produces its own natural pain killers. While more research will be needed to study the various benefits of massage, it has been found to be effective in at least these few areas:
Anxiety
Pain
Labor pains
Infant growth
Children with diabetes
Sports-related soreness
Alcohol withdrawal
Immune system
Cancer treatment
Self-esteem

Astrological Aromatherapy for July

July is the month for Leo. Leo is centered around the Sun. Being the centre of our solar system, Leo is therefore the sign of kings. Of course, this implies that political leaders, actors, musicians, pop stars and all those in the creative world lay claim to the power of Leo. Usually, Leo people enjoy being the centre of attention and love to express their creativity.

Leo associates closely with the heart and the circulation of blood around the body. Without proper recreation, creative activities and exercise, the Leo is susceptible to high blood pressure, palpitations and even more serious heart problems. As with all matters of the heart, the Leo is easily moved by matters of the heart. Love lost and love gained are felt keenly and a Leo could be completely overwhelmed by such emotions.

Therefore, Leo is susceptible to depression and down moods physically and emotionally,. Antidepressant oils like Bergamot and Orange (both associated with the Sun) will be particularly helpful during a massage session.

Astrological Oil for July

The only oil that befits the king (Leo) must surely be the King of oils (Jasmine). A popular counter part to the Queen of oils (Rose), it contains properties that help you deeply relax, lifts depression, eases childbirth, boosts confidence, helps sexual problems, soothes coughing and more. It is also used to relieve stretch marks and softens the skin.

The Jasmine plant is an evergreen, fragile, creeper that grows up to 10 meters (33 feet) high with dark green leaves and small, white star-shaped flowers. These flowers are picked at night, at the time when their aroma is most intense.

Jasmine originated in China and Northern India. When it was brought to Spain by the Moors, it quickly became very popular across Europe. Today, Europe produces some of the best Jasmine essential oils.

Precautions

While Jasmine is non-toxic, it should not be used by those who are pregnant due to its emmenagogue properties. This is a deeply relaxing oil, so excessive use could result in a person being distracted and finding it hard to concentrate.

Although essential oils blend well with most other oils, Jasmine oil blends particularly well with Bergamot, Rose, Sandalwood and all Citrus oils.

Yours faithfully,
Constance Seng

Top of the World

2009-06-27T16:28:00.000+08:00

Let the feelings Flow in June

2009-06-27T16:25:00.001+08:00

There are two very important things that define the month of June for us here in Singapore. One is that it is the mid-year school holidays and the other is, of course, Father's Day.

We honour our mothers and we just had Mother's Day in May. June is when we celebrate the sacrifices made by fathers for their children and families. Fathers represent the stability in the family and for many of us, we might even have different "father" figures throughout our lives. These could be the Big Brother you admired as a child, the Uncle you look up to as a teenager, the Teacher you respected and maybe even the Boss who commanded your awe and respect.

The first Father's Day celebration was held in Spokane, Washington on the 19th of June, 1910. It was the brainchild of a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd as she listened to a sermon about Mother's Day. Raised by her father after the death of her mother, she saw her father's courage, selflessness and love; taking the full burden of both parents alone. It was then that she decided to hold a celebration in honour of her father.

A National Father's Day Committee was formed in New York City in 1926 and finally, in 1956, was officially recognized by a Joint Resolution of Congress. Finally, in 1972, President Richard Nixon established the third Sunday of June as Father's Day.

So, do not forget to treat your father to a luxurious spa and massage package this Father's Day.

Astrological Aromatherapy for June

The Cancer is associated with the Moon which was the Great Mother in many creation myths. In astrology the Moon symbolizes emotions, the unconscious and also motherhood and mothering. All of these are very important in understanding the intrinsic nature of the Cancerian. They are often deeply emotional people, though they may not find it easy to express their feelings, hiding inside their "shell" like the Crab for whom the sign is named. The shell is the Crab's home and that is the place where they feel safe.

Cancers often worry in secret. They keep their concerns to themselves and seldom share their burdens with anyone. Pancrease and digestive problems with emotional origins are common to the Cancerian. On a lighter note, Cancerians have a great love for food.

Astrological Oil for June

For Cancerians, the Blue Camomile is the most appropriate oil. Its colour invokes the feelings of water, creating not only a strong affinity with the Crab, but also generates the calming, familiar feel of their natural home.

Generally, I recommend warm oils for a calming effect for Cancerians, quite different from the cooling oils normally associated with Cancer. The Camomile family of essential oils are calming and will benefit the Cancerian. Roman Camomile are most effective for irritation, impatience and for treating PMS and other menstrual issues. German chamomile is very effective on the skin, not only to sooth and calm, but to heal and regenerate skin tissues. This variant contains a powerful anti-inflammatory agent called azulene, a blue crystal that is not created in the plant, but is found in the soil. Just a little is sufficient to be effective.

The Egyptians loved the herb, using it to cure fever and to sooth nervous complaints. It is also used a lot in shampoos, cosmetics and perfumes. This is one of the oils to avoid during pregnancies as it promotes menstrual flow.

Therapeutic properties

The therapeutic properties of the Blue Camomile oils are:

Analgesic
anti-allergenic
anti-spasmodic
antibiotic
anti-inflammatory
bactericidal
emmenagogue
hepatic
digestive
Camomile oils have calming and relaxing capabilities. They work especially well on the nervous and digestive systems, easing and regulating the menstrual cycle and are soothing and healing for the skin. You can use Camomile blended in Massage oils or diluted in baths.

Yours faithfully,
Constance Seng

Show your Love Geminis!

2009-04-29T17:58:00.002+08:00

"Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever." That inspiring quote by an unknown author, I will always remember about mothers. Mothers are always there for us no matter how mean and thoughtless we sometimes can be.

I really salute the person or persons who first mooted the idea of a celebration in honour of our mothers. Today, Mothers Day is internationally recognized as a day to honor all mothers and to thank them for the selfless services that they have rendered to each child.

At Scent Discovery, we pay tribute to all the mothers in the world and believe that every mother is a celebrity in her own right!

Astrological Aromatherapy for May

The signs of Germini, the Twins, lies between Spring and Summer. Gemini folks are lively, quick, versatile, sociable and often curious. Due to their natural curiosity, they tend to flit from one interest to another. Changing jobs, moving homes and getting new friends are common to a Gemini. Sometimes, a Gemini tends to take on too many commitments.

Geminis would find that difficulty in relaxing and failure to have proper sleep at night are common woes. This is where aromatherapy will help to relax the great Gemini worriers. According to the author of "Astrological Aromatherapy", Patricia Davis Gemini has physical affinities with the arms, the lungs and also the nervous systems. Rheumatic or arthritic pains in the arms have long been regarded as typically Geminian problem. The association with lungs is partly through the element of Air which rules Gemini. This means, Geminis are also susceptible to bronchitis or asthma.

Germini's planet is Mercury which is associated with many plants. Lavender can slow down the overactive minds of Gemini. Basil is useful in taking care of lung ailments and when the Gemini feels exhausted. Other than Basil, Thyme or Peppermint have the same stimulating effects.

Mental Stimulation in May

The astrological oil for May represents the spirit of Gemini and is the mentally stimulating Basil. This is a watery, pale greenish-yellow oil that has a clear, light and peppery aroma. For those sensitive to scents, it adds a sweet, green top note to blended oils.

Basil has many uses. Some of the more common applications are:

analgesic
antidepressant
antispasmodic
anti-venomous
diaphoretic
digestive
expectorant
insecticide
tonic
stimulant

You can use Basil in burners and vaporizers or you can simply blend it into your bath. This essential oil has been used in the treatment of nervous disorders and stress related headaches, migraines and allergies. It is used to clear the mind and relieve intellectual fatigue, while giving clarity and mental strength. It has a beneficial action on the respiratory tract and is often used for asthma, bronchitis and sinus infections.

Astrological Aromatherapy for April - Taurus

2009-03-27T23:21:00.000+08:00

The response to our Astrological Aromatherapy issue was really great. Interestingly, I have received several phone inquiries about why essential oil is preferred to normal massage oil.

So, here is a short note for those who are interested and hopefully, it will be helpful and interesting for everyone. Our sense of smell is linked directly to the limbic system in our brain. This is the control center for emotions and it influences the nervous system and hormones. That is why perfumes are popular and the aroma of baking induces feelings of euphoria.

Essential oils leverage this principle. When you inhale the sweet or pungent aromas, depending on what oils are used, the sensory messages are picked up by the limbic system. Much as music affects your moods, these scents can affect, modify and even control many of your body functions. While the limbic system does not actively dictate, it has a strong influence and will affect your heart rate, feelings of stress, blood pressure, breathing, digestion, your immune system and much more.

The essence of essential oils can be absorbed through inhaling, or even through the skin. Different types of oils will have different effects. Some examples:

Energizing Effect - rosemary oils
De-congestion Effects - eucalyptus, pine, and tea tree oils
Uplifting Effects - bergamot, peppermint, lemon
Calming Effects - chamomile, lavender, geranium

In fact, many of these are known as common household cures for various ailments. So, it should not be surprising to learn of their many beneficial effects.

For those of you who are already aware, massage therapy has a lot of advantages. But this becomes even more powerful and effective when you combine the effects of aromatherapy. I strongly believe that Aromatherapy Massage is perfect for treatment of stress and stress related conditions such as insomnia. Digestive Disorders, PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) and headaches are other conditions that I have seen to respond very positively to Aromatherapy Massage.

Astrological Aromatherapy for April

So, in April, we would like to introduce to you the essential oil of rose. Rose is the signature oil for Taurens, those born between 21 April and 21 May. Taurens are very shrewd with their assets and assessment of value, the love the earthly pleasures of food, wine and sex. According to Patricia Davies, author of "Astrological Aromatherapy", Taurens have an affinity to Venus, the Goddess of Love. That means Taurens have the patience, determination and tenacity to develop a steadfast relationship with people. These are talented people with a keen aesthetic sense.

With their personality, the Taureans will love the sensuous delight of fine aromas and respond well to therapeutic massage. If you like to pamper a Taurean, get him/her a gift of aromatherapy massage and you'll be deeply appreciated. You see, Taurus governs the neck and shoulders, and that means Taureans will usually have some forms of aches and pains in those areas. Strange as it may sound, it is because Taureans keep all their worries there! Taureans should highlight to their masseurs to spend a little bit more time to knead and rub the tension off their stiff neck and sore shoulder area. Beside these two areas, the Taureans must take care of their throat too. They have a tendency to suffer from throat infection and even thyroid deficiency.

Luxurious oils ruled by Venus such as Rose, Geranium, Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang are great for the Earth signed Taureans. However, the slow and steady Taurean may find fiery Martian oils like black pepper and ginger equally beneficial.

Astrological Oil for April

Rose oil is sacred to Venus and certainly the epitome of beauty - both visually and in its aroma. Rose is among the most costly of essential oil and that just reflect the shrewd judge of value in the Taurean. I would recommend the use of Rose oils as it is one of the best all-purpose oils. It can fight depression, grief, anger and fear. At the same time, it has positive effects on your heart and digestive system. This is also the remedy for female problems and of course, it is perfect for the skin.

Interesting Facts about Rose Oils

Rose oils have a deep, fresh aroma and its color ranges from pale yellow to a darker shade with greenish tints. It is not an easy oil to extract, requiring around 60,000 roses to make an ounce of essence.

Why would we expend so much effort to get this oil if not for the fact that it has many wonderful properties and benefits:

Anti-depressant
Anti-phlogistic
Anti-septic
Anti-spasmodic
Anti-viral
Aphrodiasiac
Astringent
Hepatic

The list goes on for quite a bit longer. Including medicinal effects like laxative, tonic for the heart, liver and uterus; Rose oil is fascinating and precious oil.

I love to use Rose in vapourisers as it has many therapeutic effects. But one of my favourite is to add rose in a blended massage oil to maximize my enjoyment of being pampered and absorbing all the wonderful effects of this essential oil.

Astrological Aromatherapy for March - Aries

2009-02-24T08:30:00.001+08:00

December through February were 3 wonderful months of celebration. The Christmas feasting of turkey, eggnogs and log cakes were fantastic. All those yummy treats threatened to add a few centimeters to my tummy. Then, barely 4 weeks later, we celebrated Chinese New Year. That's another awesome 15 days of pineapple tarts, love letters and those fat laden, oil dripping bah kwa. And a few days after the end of CNY is Valentine's Day. And that means another box of sinfully rich chocolate! It's great that good things come in a row! Now that the celebration is temporarily over (fortunately), we have to start taking care of our bodies more diligently.

Those who know me well will know that I'm a firm believer of the wonders that a good therapeutic massage can do to your overall well being. Why?
Regular massage:

-reduces tension and anxiety
-improves blood circulation
-prevents and relieves muscles cramps and spasms
-calms the nervous system and promotes a sense of relaxation and well being
-stimulates the lymphatic system, which carries away the body's waste products

From this issue onward, I will be sharing with you some interesting information I gathered on "Astrological Aromatherapy" by Patricia Davies. While most of us know our Zodiac sign, many of us are unaware that these signs can shed light on the vulnerable parts of our bodies. Once you know your Zodiac sign, you will have immediate knowledge of the problems most likely to affect you, and an indication of which essential oil or a combination of essential oils, will help to sooth your discomfort.

Astrological Aromatherapy for March

What a great coincidence that we start the Astrological Aromatherapy in March, as the Zodiac year begins with the sign of Aries the Ram. Aries represents spring most appropriately. Full of life with spring-like energy, those born between 21 March and 20 April under the sign of Aries are usually hungry for new experiences. Aries are action-doers. They are characterized by driving energy and therefore it is very common to see Aries pushing themselves to the limit in everything that they do.

As Aries work themselves very hard, they are susceptible to headaches, migraine, catarrh, sinusitis and other physical challenges related to the head. Fortunately, such ailments respond well to aromatherapy and the appropriate essential oils. But even an Aries person will need different plants when they are stressed or agitated - the soothing oil of Venus is much more soothing and useful. The ultimate choice of a Venus oil is Rose, followed by Geranium. When an Aries suffers from fevers and inflammation, Moon-related oil such as Chamomile and Melissa will be able to relieve the discomfort. An Aries person should opt for uplifting oils such as Bergamot, Orange or Frankincense to clear the dark cloud in their minds.

Astrological Oil for March

Rosemary is the signature oil for an Aries person. Rosemary oil is a crisp and clean smelling essential oil. It is great for stimulating the brain, improving memory and mental clarity, while helping with a variety of congested respiratory tract problems, stiff muscles, coldness as well as boosting the liver and gall bladder. It is also used for improving hair and scalp health.

This essential oil is the best choice when you have headaches, migraines, neuralgia, mental fatigue and nervous exhaustion. When you need to clear your mind, or want to heighten your awareness, this is the oil to use.

One interesting effect is the antiseptic properties of Rosemary oil, which is especially effective for intestinal infections, diarrhea, colitis, dyspepsia, flatulence, hepatic disorders, and jaundice. As a pain reliever, it has been found to be effective against rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain and gout.

Other positive effects:

-palpitations
-poor circulation
-varicose veins
-water retention during menstruation
-obesity
-cellulite
-asthma
-sinus
-whooping cough
-sagging skin

So if you or anyone you know are born between 21 March and 20 April, use relevant essential oils to rejuvenate and revitalize yourself when you have a massage. The more we nurture and nourish ourselves, the better we can performed at work and be the better person we strive to be in life.

PS: If you or anyone you know wants to order Organic Rosemary oil, I have a SPECIAL PROMOTION at only $31. Or if you are keen in other good quality essential oils, send email to me and I will personally attend to it: contact AT scentdiscovery DOT COM

Snippets from Our Christmas Party

2009-01-31T16:19:00.001+08:00

At Scent Discovery, we work hard to ensure that our clients have a relaxing and soothing time with us. We also play hard to ensure we have a great time, just look at this photograph taken at our Christmas Party. We are all wearing wide smiles on our faces.

Scent Discovery e-Newsletter, Volume 6 : The Slimming Experience

2009-01-31T16:17:00.001+08:00

Welcome back everyone! I always enjoy the festive season and I'm sure you feel the same way. I believe that you have had a wonderful holiday and you are now fresh and ready for 2009!

With Christmas and Chinese New Year barely 4 weeks apart, you must have enjoyed more than just great friends and good fun. Delicious festive specialties and yummy deserts are both our joy and our bane. I hope you had plenty of festive goodies, because now, we need all the happiness and energy to face yet another year.

As part of our overall wellness, besides massage and facials; slimming is one important part of our wellness regime. Many of my clients who are not overweight are still conscious of not having excess fats accumulate around specific areas like the tummy, thighs or arms. Besides exercising regularly, incorporating wellness therapies will help to tone your muscles and eliminate excess fats and toxins. In other words, slimming is not exclusively reserved for overweight people. Many people also do not realize this; a large part of slimming involves detoxification. We need to detoxify to eliminate excess fats and harmful material from our bodies on a regular basis.

Those of you, who have been following our newsletters, know about my journey of discovery through the wonderful world of massage therapy. One of the most interesting aspects of running Scent Discovery is combining various techniques and programs, then creating new and better programs for all our clients. I like to share with you one of our secret recipes for health and wellness at Scent Discovery.

Actually, it is not so much a secret as a discovery. You see, I have combined various massage techniques with the use of slimming oils, aromatherapy and a serum. This combination allows your body to benefit from the massage for improved circulation and relaxation. The slimming oil is incorporated to enhance the slimming effect before application of the serum and body wrap.

When you first start the treatment, you will be given a full body massage focusing on target areas (if requested). You can choose from the various massage techniques that we offer. The main difference is that instead of just the essential oils, slimming oil is incorporated into the mix. Massage helps to encourage blood flow, relaxes the muscles and optimises the slimming effects of the slimming serum.

To fully realise the benefits of this treatment, you can opt for a full body scrub as part of the overall therapy. This will remove dead skin cells and greatly improve the absorption of the slimming oils.

After the full body scrub and massage, we will apply slimming serum on your body. This layer of "body mask" is the main active part of the treatment in extracting the toxins, excess fats and oil from your body. You are then wrapped and kept warm. We will of course ensure that you are comfortable and the ambience at Scent Discovery is always relaxing and friendly.

The wrap will usually last 20 minutes and the entire procedure will take around 1.5 hours from start to finish.

The results have been very good. Many who have tried our version of slimming therapy are very satisfied with the benefits.

Now that the celebrations are over, it is a good time to deal with the excess accumulation. More importantly, Valentine's Day is coming soon. A simple combination of facials, spa treatment and a slimming therapy session will ensure that you are all primed up for the most romantic day of the year.

Yours faithfully,
Constance Seng

The New Facial Experience

2008-12-30T20:34:00.003+08:00

The power suit represents success as much as glowing, healthy skin depicts your own personal wellness. In a world where competition is high and awareness is acute, every small advantage is important. Clear, healthy skin is more than just about looks. It defines your confidence, your career success. It conveys a message that you know how to handle yourself.

GONG XI FA CAI!

This festive season, be sure to look your best! A professional facial is now not seen as an occasional luxury, it is becoming a need for many busy, highly stressed executives, both men and women.

A facial is definitely relaxing, but more importantly, it also helps to cleanse and rejuvenate the skin. Not only do women love to be pampered by having facials, men are catching on too. The modern male has discovered the secret of feeling great and looking good - facials.

Before jumping out to get a facial, you should get an analysis of your skin type. Usually, this is a quick and simple process. Choosing the right facial with products suitable for your skin mean that you can optimise the benefits of a good facial.

At Scent Discovery, we have a wide variety of facials to cater to different skin types. Amongst our more popular facials are the Signature Face Spa and Classical Purification Facial. The latter is especially favoured by tired working executives and homemakers. As skin loses luster and become dull due to stress and inadequate rest, our Classical Purifying Facial will help to remove impurities and refine pores, thus soothing and revitalizing your complexion significantly.

While a suitable facial to meet your requirement is important, another vital element is the type of skin care products used. I have chosen to go with Centella for my clients because these are all natural products as opposed to chemically synthesized skin care products. Using only pure and natural essential oils, Centella products are pure, natural, highly concentrated and very effective. My clients have raving feedback on the Centella range of products.

For all first-time facial clients at Scent Discovery, our facial therapists will examine your skin condition and make recommendation on the most suitable types of facial treatment to reach the desired effect. Most of our facial treatments involve an exfoliation and a massage to stimulate and revitalise the skin.

To our regular clients, I would encourage you to include a monthly facial in your wellness regime. Skin renews itself every 28 days or so. Regular facials help to ensure proper skin renewal, especially as you age and skin renewal might take longer.

I would recommend that you develop a daily regime of cleansing, toning and moisturizing your skins so that they are protected from the harmful UV rays and other daily aggressions. Regular good skin care habits are important as such habits can help you preserve the positive effects of your facial treatments and give you better, healthier skin.

A facial is not only a relaxing treat; it is also a wonderful treatment to ensure healthy skin. I look forward to welcoming you at the spa.

The Many Styles of Massage Therapy

2008-12-11T09:50:00.001+08:00

Many happy returns this Festive Season! I would like to wish all my friends a very Merry Christmas and a fabulous New Year!

When I first became interested in massage, I was pleasantly surprised to realize that there were many different schools of massage therapy. Each and every therapy is unique and caters to different needs and moods. Enthusiastically, I started to study and practice the different techniques.

From my conversations with our clients, I came to realize that some of them are unaware that they can enjoy many different styles of massage, each with its own benefits and enjoyment. While most people have their favourite style of massage, my suggestion is to try a different technique once in a while. This can be both therapeutic and interesting.

There are times you might actually require a different type of massage. You could be feeling lethargic and tired. You might be feeling sore and ache with the coming of a flu. You were experiencing that awful cramp and tightness at the tummy just before your menstrual cycle. Whatever your body is feeling, simply communicate how you are feeling to our massage therapists; they will be able to recommend a suitable massage therapy to help minimize your discomfort.

To give you an idea, here are some of the most common styles of massage that we offer and what their benefits are:

Aromatherapy Massage

This is likely one of the most relaxing styles of massage that you can experience. Aromatherapy Massage adds the power of essential oils to create a very relaxing massage. Each essential oil has different properties and the therapist will blend them according to your needs. Combining essential oils with massage therapy allows you to activate your limbic system. The limbic system controls your emotions and influences your hormone levels. This style of massage is usually best for stress relieve, and is particularly effective if you are suffering from insomnia.

Balinese Massage

This is an ancient style of massage therapy. It combines smooth massage action like kneading and rolling with the application of essential oils or a special coconut oil enhanced with many spices. Using essential oil has an added advantage as it enables the Balinese massage to share the similar effects as the aromatherapy massage. Instead of just using the skin to absorb the goodness, you now can breathe in, as well as allowing your skin to absorb the goodness of the herbs, spices or floral properties in the essential oils.

Deep Tissue Massage

When I first learned massage, I thought that deep tissue massage was the real deal. The deep strokes and precise targeting of tissues and muscles appeared to be very difficult and professional. Now I know that deep tissue massage is but one of the many different massage technique. Each style has its own benefits. When you are feeling tight or experience muscle aches, a deep tissue massage can help to relieve you. This technique targets deep layers of muscle and connective tissues.

Shiatsu Massage

Once confined to Japan, the Shiatsu technique has become very popular in many countries. This is a very precise technique where the therapist uses his or her fingers to apply pressure at specific points along your acupuncture meridians. Unlike deep tissue massage, this technique leaves no soreness after treatment. It is relaxing and yet, you can experience the firm pressure of a strong massage.

Fusion Massage

After studying the different massage techniques, I have created the Scent Discovery Fusion Massage. As its name suggests, I have blended together the most beneficial and well appreciated aspects of different techniques and combined them into a blissful experience for you. If you are not sure which style suits you, then you must surely try the Fusion Massage.

Using deep massage and combining it with relaxing techniques allows us to help you release muscle tension, improve your circulation and relieves stress. The variety of techniques employed means that you will be able to experience many dimensions of the massage therapy.

At Scent Discovery, we have trained massage therapists from Indonesia, Philippines, China, Malaysia and Singapore. Each of them bring their own unique specialty and they are crossed trained. This means that even if your favourite therapist is occupied, you can still enjoy your favourite massage as the others are just as capable to administer the treatment.

I hope that this short introduction has given you a better idea of the different massage techniques. This is not comprehensive, but these are some of the more popular and well known techniques. Feel free to drop by and discuss your massage needs with us.

Our staff will be having their retreat on Christmas Day and we will be open on 26 Dec to serve you better. We will also be closed on 1 Jan for the New Year.

Yours faithfully,
Constance Seng

Scent Discovery Sutra Nov 08 :Waxing

2008-11-17T08:22:00.003+08:00

We are nearing the end of the year. And you know what that means - parties and celebrations in anticipation of a better year ahead. With all these, come preparations.

I would like to introduce you to a beauty care procedure that is becoming very popular among men and women - waxing.

Waxing is a semi-permanent hair removal procedure which removes unwanted hair from the root. This is really a simple procedure, yet, there are so many concerns surrounding it. For those who have never experienced waxing, I would like to share some benefits of waxing to help you understand it better.

Waxing used to be done only by women for various parts of the body. However, the convenience and positive effects of waxing have converted many men to have their bodies waxed. At Scent Discovery, our waxing services include Brazilian, Boyzilian, Bikini, chest, underarms, legs, and face.

The process usually takes around 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the area of waxing and your hair growth density. If you ask, most will tell you that it is time well spent.

"Eva Longoria talks in Cosmopolitan magazine about sex and extols the virtues of Brazilian bikini wax. "It makes sex better," she told Cosmo. And it's worth the pain? "Believe me, the first time I did it, the technician did half, and I was like 'Stop!' She said, 'Sit down, I have to finish.' But then it gets easier. The more you do it, the less hair grows back. But yeah, I love it. I swear by it. Every woman should try a Brazilian wax once. And then the sex they have afterward will make them keep coming back."

Unlike other methods of hair removal, waxing does not cause any cuts, abrasions, pigmentation or other side effects like leaving behind a bad smell. There are no harsh chemicals used and the procedure is quick and simple. This means that your skin will not be exposed to chemicals which might potentially react negatively with it (sometimes known as allergic reaction or sensitivity). The wax itself is quite inert and most people should not have any negative reactions to it.

Another big advantage of waxing is the fact that hair growth takes longer. When you wax, hair is removed from the root. You see, when this happens, it can take 3 - 8 weeks for hair to re-grow. The speed of this happening varies from person to person. Still, the most important result is, you can go for an entire vacation without worrying about taking care of any unwanted hair growth. Just imagine enjoying smooth and healthy skin without constant attention.

Though, waxing is not a permanent hair removal system, the hair that grows again is usually finer and softer in texture. Compared to shaving, this is definitely a better alternative. Many of our clients who have done regular waxing have also seen the effect of having less hair growth. As hair is removed from its roots, some of the hair never re-grows. So, you will see less hair, finer hair and smoother skin.

The above are just some of the benefits of waxing. There is another potential "benefit", although it is not actually intentional. The waxing process takes away a thin layer of skin from the surface. This is in effect an exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and exposing new healthy skin.

We at Scent Discovery have professionally trained therapists who will be able to advise you and guide you through the entire procedure. Using only wax imported from Australia, we are very particular about its quality. This is important because good quality wax reduces pain during the waxing process.

So, if you are still considering and have questions, feel free to ask.

Scent Discovery Sutra Oct 08 : Massage

2008-10-17T15:20:00.002+08:00

If you have read my first newsletter, you will know how I came to be introduced to the many joys and benefits of massage. Massage is my passion as much as it is a business. I would like to share some additional information about massage with you in this issue of our newsletter.

It is difficult to pin-point the origins of massage. Generally, it is accepted that massage began more than 5,000 years ago in China. Massage is the oldest form of healing therapies. There are many different forms of massage and massage techniques in different regions are known for different specialties

Most people believe that massage can help promote healthy circulatory system and good posture. In addition, Massage can help release tension and aches felt in the muscles. It enables better muscles and joints movements. Even non-physical conditions like stress and insomnia can be improved with massage therapy. Some doctors even recommend massage as a stress treatment. But I don't think you need a doctor to tell you how good a professional massage can make you feel.

As a general rule of thumb, you should pamper yourself with a massage at least once a month. The benefits of massages are cumulative. In other words, the cumulative effects might be lost if the interval between massages is left too long apart. Naturally, increased frequency will result in increased benefits. Having said that, the results will vary from person to person. Some people may have to consult their physician for advice on the frequency of massages due to present medical conditions. You can generally judge for yourself based on how comfortable you feel and the health improvements you experience.

Most people know that the skills and experience of a masseur will determine the quality and results of the massage. However, "little things" like ambience, lighting, music, smell and the massage oil can make a big difference. I can't emphasize enough the importance of the use of a good massage oil. Good massage oil not only helps to sooth the muscles, it has other benefits as well.

At Scent Discovery, Sweet Almond Oil from Australia is used as the massage oil of choice because of the multitude of benefits it offers. It is soothing, easily absorbable and lends a soft glowing beautiful touch to the skin. Sweet Almond Oil will not clot the pores; in fact, it helps balance the moisture in the body. In Ayurveda, almond is considered a nutrient for the brain and nervous system. Also, recent research has shown benefits with respect to cancer prevention and cholesterol. Some studies have shown that some constituents of almond have anti-inflammatory, and immunity boosting effects.

Getting a massage can do you a world of good. At Scent Discovery, we offer many different types of massage. The Aromatherapy Massage, is relaxing and makes you feel really good thereafter. While Scent Signature Discovery Massage and Balinese Massage use traditional massage techniques to release muscle tension, improve blood circulation and promote "qi" (energy) movement within your body. Massage is a very personal experience. What works for one person, might not work for another. Our suggestion is for you to give a single type of massage a few sessions to allow time for the benefits to manifest themselves. Many people go from one spa to another. This might allow you to experience many different styles, but it is better to stick to a regular spa. This allows us time to understand your body and its specific needs, and also allows time for the beneficial effects to be experienced.

A massage is not just a pampering treat, it is therapeutic as well. I would recommend you include massage as a part of your health and wellness plan. Our experienced masseurs will advise you on a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

Massage Workshop in YuHua Sec Sch

2008-09-14T07:56:00.003+08:00

I was invited to conduct a 1.5 hr workshop on 13 Sept at Yuhua Secondary to teach simple massage.

Here are some Testimonies

"Yes, I enjoyed it very much. The practical session and tips were very useful for a beginner. The Instructor was very pleasant and is also well-versed" Ms Siva, Teacher

"It's a great workshop. I will discipline myself to have more massage regularly as it promotes good health and a good mind." Audrey Go,School Coordinator

I've learnt a good course in experiencing massages. I really enjoyed the whole lesson with all the friendly explanation." Judy Lim, Housewife

If you like me to conduct workshops to teach individuals or groups, feel free to drop me an e-mail at contact@scentdiscovery.com

Scent Discovery Newsletter Vol 1

2008-09-10T06:47:00.004+08:00

I welcome you to uncover the beauty of Scent Discovery.This is the first issue of a series of newsletters, where we will share with you our discoveries on how you can enjoy the goodness of spa treatments and through them, achieve a greater sense of well being. Scent Discovery has been established for 3 lovely years, and we are pleased that Street Directory's Spa Advisor has graced us with an encouraging review: Scent Discovery: Fusing Therapy and Sensuality

I would like to share a little about myself, so that you will feel at home when you visit Scent Discovery. After graduating from the National University of Singapore, I worked for 8 years in Sales and Marketing. It was really stressful for me, and I took up a part-time massage course as a hobby. It was my way to learn how to relax myself. Then, my father was diagnosed with fourth-stage throat cancer, and I realized what a blessing my massage skills really were. His chemotherapy sessions left him tired and in pain. The daily massages that I did on him helped him to relax and brought much relief to him. To my pleasant surprise, his condition improved tremendously after a week. This experience really fired up my passion for massage.

With this new-found belief and passion, I took one step further into the field of Beauty and Holistic health. Not contented with my existing skills and knowledge, I went to the best schools around Asia to seek further improvement. I am now a qualified Aromatherapist by the renowned London Institute of Aromatherapy. I have also completed a Tui Na course from the Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine and even took a Thai Massage course from the famous Wat Po Thai Traditional Medicinal School in Thailand.

Under my management, I believe Scent Discovery can provide you with the ideal spa experience.Scent Discovery is not just a job, but it is my passion. I spend my time managing the spa and training those who are interested to learn more about Health and Holistic therapy. Even now, I constantly travel around the world, seeking out new massage techniques and learning from different experts. I resolve to keep myself up-to-date on the latest developments in massage therapy so that your spa experience at Scent Discovery would be exceptional. My personal mission is to heal the world through educating everyone about the many benefits of massage.

To end this first newsletter, I extend a very warm welcome to one and all. When you visit us at Scent Discovery, you will be pampered, and walk out the door, with a smile on your face.

Yours faithfully,

Constance Seng

Ear Candling

2008-07-28T19:48:00.006+08:00

Hi There,

Haven't been writing for some time. I have been busy preparing my new website, course and marketing materials. Will be teaching “massage for couples”, “learn massage in 12 hours” etc.

Been going thru my old notes. Ear Candling is one of my Favourites.

Dating back to the ancient Egyptian, Chinese, Tibetan and American Indian cultures, ear candling was a home remedy for cleaning the ear gently.

A clearance therapy used primarily for cleaning the ears and to promote a healthy atmosphere in the ears, sinus cavities and throat that had been used successfully for many problems related to the ear and head area.

Scent Discovery will have a promotion for Ear Candling. Try it for only $4.90 after 90mins of Body Massage. The therapist will be doing head and shoulder massage to help with lymph drainage while the candles is burning.

Enjoy the relaxing experience!

Waxing

2008-06-23T15:25:00.005+08:00

We are happy to announce that waxing services are now available at Scent Discovery - from Upper lips waxing, Bikini Wax to Brazilian Wax. Depending on how adventurous you are, we strongly recommend bare it all as you will feel so sexy and clean after that. Try it to know it! ;-p

We are using Lycon products from Australia. They have excellent products to reduce the pain of waxing. Of course, skills of the therapists are just as important.

Call us now to experience it! More information on pricing can be found on our website.

Thank You for coming to our event.

2008-06-23T15:19:00.005+08:00

A big “Thank You!” for the overwhelming response to our 2-day event. And our sincere apologies to all the customers who did not manage to get a slot or had to wait some time for their turns.

We thank you for all your positive comments for the facial treatments and will be looking forward to serve you soon with our skillful therapists and excellent products from Europe.

We are so busy that we completely forgot to take photographs of the event. So till next time...

Never Before Offer

2008-05-30T23:50:00.003+08:00

Hi There

Had been so busy lately. Many changes.
More importantly, we’ve an offer that no one should miss. I managed to convince my supplier to work with us to give a 2 day special.

For only $30, you can do a 75 mins facial with micro cell treatment with Ampoule worth $209. On Top of that, you can redeem $30 worth of products which you can purchase on that day. It means the facial is free! The products are all from Europe and i personally have been using them. And they are excellent.

This promotion is valid from 20-21 June 2008 ( Fri and Sat). Do call us at 6256 5288 to book. Slots are running out fast.

Take care and have fun.

Massage for Family

2008-01-15T17:26:00.000+08:00

One of the best way of loving your family is giving them a good massage. No Words,just touch speaks better than a thousand words.

My mum had been admitted to hospital recently. After lying in bed for 2 days, she realised that her spinal bone is pressing on her nerve that caused her to have lower back ache and numbness on her legs. She immediately called me to give her massage. After an hour of intense massage on her back, she felt so much better. She can even walk properly after that.

She is so happy and after discharge, went to the market where she have her usual " aunties" gathering and start talking about how my massage helped her. Now, her friends are visiting my spa for their ache and pains.

Learn massage and help your love ones. Many people are suffering in silence till you asked them.

Bamboo Massage

2007-10-19T23:37:00.001+08:00

The first time i tried it, it was sooooo comfortable. Most importantly, it is effective in breaking down the fats and have a shaping and contouring effect. The feeling of the bamboo rolling on your body is very therapeutic. Can see immediate results too. No wonder it is the latest craze in Europe now!
Try it for yourself as it is now available in Scent Discovery. Spot treatment (tummy, arms or thighs) for $39 or Relaxing Full body massage for $85.

Baby / Child Massage

2007-09-29T23:04:00.002+08:00

Many ask me if it is ok to give their young children or baby a massage. Yes, please do it! Children love it. And you will love it too. Seeing them enjoy it and smile at you will make your day.

I remember when my nephews were young (they are 13 & 11 years old now), they will come to my house to have massage. They would fight to go 1st. I converted a room into a massage room with the right atmosphere, music and lighting.

Within 20mins or so, the 1st one will fall asleep. And I will quietly carry him to the bed and let him continue sleeping for the next 2hrs or so. 2nd nephew will then have his turn. It was a great time for me as I use my hands to communicate with them.

Massage is an art. Learn massage and you will learn to give too.

Sleep Apnea

2007-09-18T23:07:00.002+08:00

Ever since operation of the spa, we have been talking to our customer. We realised that a number of people had Sleep Apnea.

What is Sleep Apnea?
sleep apnoea or sleep apnœa is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. Source and for more information : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sleep_apnea

It is common during a massage that you will fall asleep as it is so relaxing. People who have sleep apnea will snore very loudly as their body try to take in more oxygen. And it is not easy to wake them up after the massage as they really sleep so soundly.

Ask your partner or family if you snore during sleep. Get it treated fast.

Use your heart, not your eyes

2007-09-03T22:51:00.001+08:00

We are going to Anthony Robbins class tmr. Managed to find some time for a massage by my staff. We always do checks on them to ensure they are always performing at a high standard.

We will remind them about the details, from how to place the towels gently over the customers to making sure they are always improving their skills.

One key factor I will always tell them - Use your heart not your eyes when doing massage.

Have you ever been massaged by blind people? They really do great massage. They do not judge with their eyes, they feel how tense your muscles are.

Will be away for a week and will be back soon. ;-p

Pregnancy Massage

2007-08-30T17:01:00.001+08:00

Many people asked me if a pregnant woman is suitable for a massage.

OF COURSE. They are the ones who need it most. Imagine carrying a water balloon around for 6 months. (that's because normally, the 1st trimester is not visible and not suitable having massages)

Many pregnant women experience lower back ache, swollen legs, varicose veins and get tired easily. During the last trimester, it will be so uncomfortable that it will affect their sleep.

It is important that the mother-to-be discuss with us her concerns and the areas which she find uncomfortable and would like us to focus on. History of pregnancy should be highlighted if there's any prior bleeding or concerns.

An ideal massage should be around 1.5 hrs. The therapist will first start to massage the back on the massage chair. Even if you are about to due, you can still sit comfortably to be massaged. I had a lady who was 37 weeks when she came to us, she enjoyed it very much.

After around 20 mins on the chair, we will bring you to the massage bed. Depending on how big your baby is, we will recommend you to lie sideways. The therapist will then work on your back, legs and hands.

Most mothers to be feel so relax during the massage that they will doze off. They will only wake when they need to change side or at the end of the massage. They even commented that have never slept so well during the whole pregnancy because of the size or the baby is always kicking.

Enjoy the Gift of Giving and Receiving !

Lazy Man Exercise

2007-08-23T12:07:00.001+08:00

Many people come for a massage only when they are very tired or have some aches and pains somewhere. It is right that massage can help ease the muscles. We would prefer customers take a preventive rather than reactive point of view for massage.

When you own a car, you would not miss the regular mileage maintenance. You send the car to the workshop for regular servicing. Why don't you do it for your body? You can change your car when it is old. But you cannot change your body when it breaks down.

The advantage of regular massages far exceed the cost if you were to fall sick. It has so many advantages, just like exercise; but of course, it does not increase the heart rate.

I like this quote by Jim Rohn, America's Foremost Business Philosopher. : "Take good care of your body. It's the only place you live."

Touch

2007-08-22T00:07:00.002+08:00

There was a research done on a group young monkeys, on the importance of touch. The monkeys were separated into 2 groups. One group was fed with milk and left alone in the cage. The other group is being carried into human's arms to drink milk, carried around and played.

The results after 2 weeks showed the monkeys that had been carried around had grown much heavier and bigger compared to the other group. That's how important touch is.

In our Internet world now, we just communicate via e-mails or chats. Even if your colleague is sitting just beside you, you sometimes write e-mails.

A regular called us on Monday to book a massage for the afternoon. I told him we were full and tried to arrange for a later timing. He asked: "how come Monday so busy ?" (suppose to be slow for retail on Monday) My answer: Suicide rate highest on Monday too...because of Monday Blues.

Remember to relax and give your family a big hug.

My Therapists

2007-08-21T15:56:00.001+08:00

My Therapists are really a cute group of people. Despite coming from different countries, race and personalities, they all share once common interest - Massage

All of them loved being massaged. Today, I gave them a short training. They will practise on each other whenever there's a chance. They relax, and at the same time, pick up skills from each other. As a professional, we got to keep improving our skills.

As they come from different training schools, their techniques tend to vary. But all of them are good in their own way. Wow, look at their muscles... They are really strong yet can be gentle.

Click here for some comments by our customer

http://www.scentdiscovery.com/testimonials.html

Quality of Oil

2007-08-20T13:52:00.001+08:00

A customer told us that she doesn’t feel oily after a massage compared to some other places that she went. Yes, that's because we use a good quality base oil for massage. Using good oils is important as it nourishes and moisturises the skin. Poor quality tend to clot up the pores. For customer who have sensitive skin, they might get a break out of pimples or rashes.

Base oil range from a few dollars to tens of dollars for a litre. Some places might charge cheap but beware of the oils they use. If you have elephant thick skin, then no problem. Or i might suggest, you bring your own good oils. ;-p

Sunday

2007-08-19T17:43:00.001+08:00

Today is my day off. We work hard. Six days a week. I am lucky to get Sunday off to spend time with my family.

My Mum complained of backache today. As usual, she asked me to massage her back. After ten mins, she felt better. This reminded me of when my dad had cancer. I massaged him everyday to relieve his pain from the side effects of chemotherapy. He has sinced passed away, but I feel better when I know I had lessened his suffering when he was around.

It's great to have a skill to help people esp your loves ones. I strongly encourage everyone to learn it. If you want to know more, you can write to me for more details about classes we conduct.
e-mail : contact@scentdiscovery.com

Why do we have Passion for Massage ?

2007-08-18T09:36:00.001+08:00

It feels absolutely wonderful when you are getting a massage. After the massage, you will feel totally refreshed. That's how I felt when I first had a massage. I fell in love with it. (of course, you got to have a good therapist)

This morning, I read this article on alternative therapy. They mentioned that many people are seeking new ways to help them in their illness. No doubt, alternative therapy is getting popular as people are looking for a non-invasive, less side effects and less painful treatment.

Massage is an alternative therapy. What is Massage?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues for the purpose of normalizing them. Therapists use their hands, elbows or forearms to cause movement to the limbs, muscles or skin surface.

Waste products such as lactic acid can accumulate in the muscle, causing soreness or stiffness when they are overworked.

Massage improves circulation, which increases blood flow, bringing fresh oxygen to body tissues. This can assist in the elimination of waste products, speed healing after injury, and enhance recovery from diseases. It helps the body to heal itself and increases well-being.

I can go on and on, but I am sure you can look up the Internet for more explanation.
For a brief one, you can go to http://www.scentdiscovery.com/benefits%20of%20massage.html

How it all started

2007-08-15T00:30:00.001+08:00

It all started after I graduated from the University. I love (and still do) to go for spa treatments and massages. I like to know what the therapist doing, why they do each step. I ask questions. I spent a lot of money going to spas. I decided to go learn it myself...

Why ?

2007-08-07T13:05:00.001+08:00

Many people ask us why we want to set up a spa. We don't want the long retail hours, income is not as much as we could earn if we were to work in the corporate world. The big question is - WHY......

We set up Scent Discovery because of a simple reason...PASSION.. We love the satisfaction of being in this trade. People walking out feeling good about themselves. Looking younger and healthier.

There are many interesting stories to be told in this trade...I didn't know all these before i started . I never worked in spa before...I will reveal them slowly... ;-p

However, don't expect perfect English. I am writing for fun and interest, not to get a prize...Have Fun reading and I will have fun writing.